How to Buy a Waterproof Digital Camera

A waterproof digital camera is a necessity if you're an underwater photographer. The underwater models work much like regular digital cameras, but they have several extra features. Compare and contrast the different brands before purchasing one.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Check how much depth the digital camera can endure. Some cameras can go down only as far as 5 feet, while others can go down 50 feet.

2. Discover the lighting requirements. Some underwater cameras need some light to function, while others can take pictures in darkened places, such as underwater caves.

3. Research the optical zoom. You want at least a 3X zoom with 7.1 megapixels.

4. Note the minimum temperature at which your waterproof digital camera can function. The deeper you go in the water, the colder it gets. Some manufacturers market their cameras as freeze proof.

5. Check the casing and button sizes. Wear the gloves you wear when diving or swimming and see if you can comfortably push all the buttons and grip the camera. For the best grip, the camera should have rubber casing.

Tips & Warnings

• If you only want a waterproof digital camera for taking pictures of your kids underwater, or photographing a few feet under at the beach, stay cost effective by going for a simple camera with a good zoom.

Resources

• Get peer-to-peer reviews at Epinions.